How science and theology can help advance truth | Brenton DeBoef | TEDxURI
Brenton Deboef, both a scientist and a man of faith, discusses the significant divide between science and religion. Scientists and deeply faithful individuals often regard each other with suspicion. Brenton reflects on his journey during the COVID pandemic, when he sought to communicate scientific facts about the vaccine to those of faith, sharing his trials and tribulations along the way, and how a bridge was ultimately built along with the lessons learned.Dr. Brenton DeBoef is a Professor of Chemistry and the Dean of the Graduate School at URI. His research focuses on the invention of new chemical reactions and the synthesis of molecular imaging agents. For Brenton, his truth is that he has an unexplained obsession with the element xenon.Outside of the lab, Brenton is an armchair theologian, rocket enthusiast, and avid college football fan. As a practitioner of science and faith, Brenton explores the intersection, or lack thereof of the two fields.This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
More from TED
- 22:57Bharateeya Darshan | Mukund Madhav Tripathi | TEDxSVKM NMIMS Navi MumbaiBhāratīya Darśana, or Indian philosophy, is a profound quest for truth rooted in the Vedas and expressed through six classical schools—Sāṅkhya, Yoga, Nyāya, Vaiśeṣika, Mīmāṁsā, and Vedānta. Sāṅkhya presents a dualistic framework of consciousness and matter, while Yoga offers practical methods for self-realization. Nyāya focuses on logic and epistemology, and Vaiśeṣika explores the physical world through categories like substance and motion. Mīmāṁsā emphasizes dharma and ritual action as paths to liberation, and Vedānta seeks the ultimate unity of the self and Brahman. Together, these darśanas form a comprehensive and complementary vision of life, knowledge, and liberation. Dr. Mukund Madhav Tripathi, is an accomplished academic leader with 17 years of experience in corporates, higher education, research, and academic administration. Currently serving as the Associate Dean at the School of Commerce, NMIMS University, he has significantly contributed to academic planning, curriculum development, and faculty mentorship.A Ph.D. in Business Management and Business Administration, Dr. Tripathi also holds an MBA from Banaras Hindu University and a B. Tech. in Electronics and Communication. His interdisciplinary academic background combines strong technical expertise with strategic business insight.Dr. Tripathi has authored and published over 20 research papers in reputed journals listed under ABDC, Scopus, Web of Science, and UGC Care. He is an AIMA-certified consultant and has presented research at top-tier institutions such as IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Kozhikode, and MICA Ahmedabad, among others.Recognized for his thought leadership, he has been invited as a keynote speaker and session chair at several postgraduate and undergraduate conferences and events, including those hosted by MICA. He has also actively participated in and organized academic workshops and conferences, especially in the fields of analytics and artificial intelligence.His research interests include Business Analytics, Supply Chain Management, Logistics Management, WMS, Generative AI and Indian Knowledge System. He has attended numerous faculty development programs and advanced workshops at prestigious institutions such as IIT Madras, IIM Bangalore, and IIIT Ahmedabad. He has also served as the convener for multiple training programs focused on R programming and analytical tools.With a deep commitment to innovation in education, Dr. Tripathi continues to mentor postgraduate students and remains actively engaged in research, consultancy, and institutional development. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 20:42Pause: Your Secret Superpower | Sanjay Gajria | TEDxSVKM NMIMS Navi MumbaiPause: Your Secret SuperpowerWe think power comes from action — from doing more, speaking faster, moving quicker. But sometimes, the real power comes from stopping. A pause can settle our nerves, make our words land better, and help us notice what truly matters. And in that little bit of silence… we often find our real strength. Sanjay Gajria is a Post Graduate in Human Resource Development Management with additional qualifications in Filmmaking, Journalism & Mass Communication. A seasoned actor, voice artist, and former branding head, he has worked in popular TV shows, web series, ads, and brand endorsements across multiple languages. He is also a sought-after trainer in Public Speaking and Communication through Theatre, associated with leading academic and professional institutes. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 17:56Ramrajya – Flawless Model of Governance and Leadership | Vinit Joshi | TEDxSVKM NMIMS Navi MumbaiRamrajya is considred to be epitome of good governance and each and every Bhartiya dreams of having the Ramrajya to be materialised. It is important to understand Ramrajya is not the kingdom ruled by shri Ram but it is the kingdom ruled by Principles and practices of Shri Ram. It is interesting to understand that ‘Bharat’ the younger half brother of Shri Ram is the one who followed the guidance given by Shri Ram effectively establishing the Ramrajya before Shri Ram started ruling Ayodhya. This talk provides a brief outline of the “Ramrajya - Flawless Model of governance and leadership” Dr. Vinit Joshi, is an accomplished academician with more than 20 years of experience in corporates, higher education, research, and academic administration. Currently serving as the Assistant Professor at the School of Commerce, NMIMS Deemed to be University Navi Mumbai campus, He has PhD in Business Management and Masters in Commerce and MBA. he has significantly contributed to academic planning and curriculum development. Dr. Joshi has authored and published over 15 research papers in reputed journals listed under ABDC, Scopus, and UGC Care. He has also authored for various books on accountancy and edited 2 books. His research interests include Business Management and Indian Knowledge System. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 14:12When Passion Meets Plan B | Gaurav Ghai | TEDxSVKM NMIMS Navi MumbaiMy talk perfectly aligns with “This Side of Tomorrow” by highlighting how small, intentional actions taken today—like learning a new skill, switching careers, or helping others grow—can shape a radically different future, both personally and collectively.Coming from an arts background and transitioning into software development, I’m proof that one decision can change the course of a life. But more importantly, when shared, that one decision can spark thousands more. Today, I use my journey to guide others into high-growth careers—bridging the gap between where they are and Gaurav Ghai, founder of One Roadmap and LinkedIn Top Voice, is passionate about helping young professionals launch successful careers, sharing expert advice on landing high-paying jobs, acing interviews, and building valuable coding skills. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 11:05From Crazy to Inevitable | Kalpesh Dave | TEDxSVKM NMIMS Navi MumbaiKalpesh S. Dave's TEDx talk, titled "From Crazy to Inevitable: Building the Teams That Dare to Dream Beyond," emphasizes that groundbreaking success often originates from ideas that initially seem "crazy". His core message is that fearless collaboration and an unconventional mindset are what transform impossible concepts into reality. Kalpesh Dave is the Deputy CEO of Bajaj Capital Ltd, with over two decades of leadership in banking, wealth management, and investments. He has played key roles at ICICI Bank, Kotak Mahindra, Aditya Birla Wealth, L&T Private Banking, and was a founding member of InCred Wealth, scaling it to over $1.2 billion in assets. An alumnus of IIFT and Oxford’s Saïd Business School, he is recognized as a visionary leader, driving innovation, client-centric strategies, and excellence in financial services. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 3:43Engineering Hope: Restoring Movement in Parkinson’s Disease | Amey Desai | TEDxDJSCEWhat happens when the mind is ready to move but the body refuses? In this insightful talk, Amey Desai, engineer and founder of Lifespark Technologies, explores how innovation can address one of the most debilitating symptoms of Parkinson’s disease -freezing of gait.He introduces a simple, wearable device that delivers gentle vibrations to specific parts of the body, helping patients overcome moments of immobility. More than just an engineering solution, Desai shows how technology can restore independence, dignity, and hope for those living with Parkinson’s. Amey Desai, engineer and founder of Lifespark Technologies, tackles one of Parkinson’s most debilitating symptoms—freezing of gait. By developing a small wearable device that sends gentle vibrations to restore mobility, he demonstrates how technology can offer not just medical solutions, but also independence and hope. His work exemplifies the impact of engineering in improving quality of life. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
